A little over four years ago, Patrick and his wife Gill Weiner opened their store at Nunawading, Victoria. They’d heard on the Bedshed grapevine about the bi-annual buying trips that Bedshed hosts across Asia including Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore and China. However, it was only this year that they decided to take up the opportunity to attend.

Here, Patrick shares what you can expect from a buying trip with Bedshed.

When it comes to the myths surrounding the world of franchising, we’ve heard them all! From lack of work/life balance to financial instability, there are a number of misconceptions about franchising, often circulated in both the industry and media, that don’t always paint the full picture.

If you’re considering joining a franchise, it’s important to remember that every franchise system is different. Each franchise will have their own way of incorporating franchisees into their network, and from there how they work with (and treat) them. At Bedshed, we know our own model can put any negative rumours to rest, starting with the common myth that your voice won’t be heard.

Stewart Herman, of Bedshed Melville, has been a franchisee with Bedshed for almost 21 years. During this time, he’s certainly achieved a lot – however it hasn’t come without its challenges.

It’s no secret that a successful and prosperous career takes hard work and determination, something Stewart knows all too well. While reflecting on his time with Bedshed so far, we asked Stewart what franchising career advice he would give his younger self.

All successful careers require hard work and determination. Franchising is no different. The majority of people want to find a happy medium when it comes to their careers. They want something that’s rewarding and challenging, but most of all something that pays enough to support their family and the lifestyle they want.

There’s a lot of reasons people go into franchising – independence, financial sustainability and a career change are up there as some top examples. But for many, the promise of having flexibility and work/life balance is the biggest appeal.

As a leader in the franchising industry, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes. Bedshed’s General Manager, Gavin Culmsee, has been with the business for nine years, leading the network of 24 franchisees. Since joining the team, Gavin has overseen the successful expansion and growth of the network across the country.

So, you’ve made the decision to change your life and own your own franchise. You’ve done your homework, determined the franchise you want to be a part of and your doors are officially open for business. What’s next?

It may come as no surprise that starting your own franchise can be hard work, but with the right tools and support, good planning and a solid network, you can position your franchise for growth and success.

It’s a common misconception that joining a franchise means your decision-making power and input into important product selection is taken away. At Bedshed, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Bedshed hosts biannual buying trips which visit destinations across Asia including Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore and China. These are open to any franchisee who’s interested in taking part in product selection.

Katy Gennai, of Bedshed Watergardens, is a seasoned expert when it comes to making valuable product purchase decisions. Having recently returned from the most recent buying trip, Katy shares some insight into what the trips are really like.

Nearly two years ago, Jennifer and her husband Rob Stewart opened their store at Bundall, in the Gold Coast. Relocating both their business and family from Melbourne was no easy feat. There were a number of challenges along the way, but as a family, and with the support of Bedshed, the Stewart family are now thoroughly enjoying the successful operation of their Bundall store.

Here we ask Jennifer a few questions to get to know her and her family better.

The decision to buy a franchise is undoubtedly a big one. So, before you make this critical decision, it’s important you have all the facts.

While there are a number of benefits of owning a franchise, there are also a number of misconceptions, usually circulated around the industry and in the media. These myths don’t always paint the full picture of the industry, and they certainly aren’t representative of what franchising is like at Bedshed.

Thinking about starting a business? Download our whitepaper which explores the fears, motivations and experiences of franchisees on their journey for insight from those who've done it all before.

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Got a question? Just want to have an initial conversation? Contact our National Business Development Manager, Rod Parker.

Rod Parker+61 (03) 9439 5594
+61 (0) 419 494 480

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